Summary
Probe selection
Use a phased array probe, which has a square footprint. Note the position of the orientation marker on the side of the probe.
Patient position
The patient is placed in the left lateral decubitus position to obtain the PLAX, PSAX and apical 4C views.
The supine position can be used for the SC4C view.
For the purposes of the VR simulation, the patient is placed supine for all views.
protocol
Cardiac POCUS is performed by obtaining the following views in sequence:
- Parasternal Long Axis
- Parasternal Short Axis
- Apical 4 Chamber
- Subcostal 4 Chamber
PLAX
Place the transducer in the 2nd to 4th intercostal space to the left of the sternum.
The transducer orientation marker should face the patients right shoulder.
PSAX
From the PLAX view, keep the transducer in the same location on the chest wall.
Rotate the transducer by 90 degrees clockwise so that the orientation marker faces the patients left shoulder.
A4C
Place the probe at the apex of the heart, or point of maximal impulse.
The transducer orientation marker should face the patient’s left flank.
SC4C
The probe is placed subcostally,and angled cephalad towards the heart. The transducer orientation marker faces the patient’s left flank.
